Xbox Game Pass 4 Games Ready for August 2024

Xbox Game Pass has cemented itself as one of the best deals in gaming, providing subscribers with access to hundreds of titles for a low monthly fee. As we look ahead to August 2024, Xbox has announced four major games coming to Game Pass on day one of their release. These new additions continue Xbox’s commitment to bringing top-tier gaming content to their popular subscription service.

Halo Infinite Campaign DLC

The blockbuster Halo series will expand in a big way in August 2024 with campaign DLC for Halo Infinite. This will pick up the story of Master Chief directly after the events of Halo Infinite’s main campaign.

Specific details are still scarce, but the DLC is likely to add 3-5 hours of new story content, along with new environments to explore and enemies to battle. Given Halo Infinite’s existing open world elements, the DLC maps may connect seamlessly with the main game.

Fans will definitely want to jump back into the epic sci-fi universe and continue Master Chief’s saga against the Banished. The DLC will also advance the storylines of other characters like the Pilot and Weapon.

As one of Xbox’s flagship franchises, the Halo Infinite campaign DLC is a huge boon for Game Pass. Subscribers will get to play the content on day one at no additional cost. This emphasizes Xbox’s commitment to delivering premium gaming experiences via Game Pass.

Forza Horizon 5 Expansion

The Forza Horizon series has carved out a niche for itself as an open-world racing playground. Forza Horizon 5 continued that tradition by letting players explore a vibrant representation of Mexico.

In August 2024, Forza Horizon 5 will receive a major expansion, providing a whole new area to drive through. Based on clues dropped by the developers, it seems likely the new map will take players to Japan.

Venturing to Japan would allow the expansion to include winding mountain roads, seaside villages, and bustling city streets. The environment diversity would be a welcome change of pace after spending so much time in Mexico.

The Forza Horizon 5 expansion will bring plenty of new events and gameplay opportunities beyond just the setting change. Expect over 100 new races and challenges across multiple race types like cross country, street scene, and more. There will also be new story content and customization options to keep the experience feeling fresh.

As with all Forza Horizon post-launch content, Xbox Game Pass subscribers will have access to the Japan expansion at no extra cost. The steady stream of free add-ons is a huge perk for racing fans subscribed to Game Pass.

Starfield

Without a doubt, Starfield will be the most anticipated Xbox Game Pass launch of August 2024. The long-awaited new IP from Bethesda Game Studios has been teased for years. Now the sprawling sci-fi RPG is ready to transport players across the cosmos.

Starfield aims to provide an unprecedented sense of scale by setting the adventure within a fully realized galaxy. Players will journey to various planets filled with unique factions, environments, and questlines.

Given Bethesda’s pedigree with open world games like Skyrim and Fallout, the studio’s first new IP in 25 years has understandably high expectations. All indications point to Starfield being Bethesda’s most ambitious game ever.

On the technical side, Starfield will harness the power of a brand new, next-gen engine to bring the galaxies to life. Visually, expect huge improvements in areas like lighting, landscape rendering, and character models compared to previous Bethesda titles.

For Xbox faithful, the best part about Starfield is that it will be included day one on Game Pass. Bethesda games launching directly into Game Pass has already become a trend following Microsoft’s acquisition of the studio. Starfield continuing that pattern is a huge victory for subscribers eager to play Bethesda’s sci-fi saga.

Minecraft Legends

Minecraft is one of the most popular games in the world, so a new entry in the franchise grabbing a Game Pass spot makes perfect sense. Minecraft Legends represents a major gameplay departure for the blocky sandbox series by introducing real-time strategy elements.

In Minecraft Legends, players will lead armies of familiar mobs into large-scale battles against invading enemies. Gameplay revolves around building bases, gathering resources, researching tech upgrades, and commanding troops.

The voxel aesthetic of Minecraft persists in Legends, ensuring the game still feels connected to the beloved sandbox that started it all. But the shift to more directed, story-focused missions is sure to bring some fresh energy to Minecraft.

Minecraft Legends seems tailor-made for Game Pass subscribers. Players who maybe fell off the mainline Minecraft games will have good incentive to return to the franchise and check out this new direction. And the family-friendly, accessible strategy gameplay meshes well with Xbox’s broad audience.

Game Pass Keeps Getting Better

With these four major additions, the stellar value proposition of Xbox Game Pass grows even stronger in August 2024. Halo, Forza Horizon, Starfield, and Minecraft represent some of Xbox’s most acclaimed franchises.

Game Pass has fundamentally changed how gamers access content by providing day one access to new releases at no extra cost. The service now boasts millions of subscribers, and moves like landing these upcoming August games will likely attract millions more.

Microsoft’s willingness to put its biggest games directly into Game Pass proves the company’s commitment to the platform. Xbox believes Game Pass represents the future of gaming. Based on the quality and variety of experiences included, it’s hard to argue with their vision.

What Else is Coming to Game Pass in August 2024?

The four highlighted games capture many of the biggest Game Pass additions for August 2024. However, Xbox will pad out the month with plenty of other titles across different genres. Here’s a quick look at some of the other games slated to join Game Pass over the course of the month.

• Phantom Abyss– Procedurally generated temples full of traps, secrets, and parkour challenges.
• Slime Rancher 2– The sequel to the viral farming sim adds new slimes to wrangle.
• Lies of P– A dark action RPG inspired by Pinocchio and Bloodborne.
• Train Sim World 3– The latest simulation offers realistic train control across stunning routes.
• Fire Commander– Frantic multiplayer firefighting battles set in sci-fi settings.
• Inkulinati– A turn-based strategy game with a medieval manuscript art style.
• Age of Empires IV– The iconic RTS franchise finally comes to Xbox consoles and Game Pass.

On top of the above titles, expect plenty of surprises and unannounced indie gems joining Game Pass throughout the month as well.

Will These Games Come to Other Platforms?

A common question around major Game Pass releases is whether they will launch on other platforms too, or remain exclusive to Xbox and PC.

Here’s a quick rundown of the expected availability for the spotlight August 2024 games:

• Halo Infinite DLC– Will remain exclusive to Xbox and PC.
• Forza Horizon 5 Expansion– Will remain exclusive to Xbox and PC.
• Starfield– Will be available on PC but not other consoles.
• Minecraft Legends– Will also launch on Nintendo Switch, Playstation 5, and PC.

Microsoft has shown a willingness recently to bring Minecraft content to competing platforms. But for flagship titles like Halo and Forza Horizon, Xbox ecosystem exclusivity remains key.

Starfield is an interesting situation as an Xbox console exclusive that will come to PC too. Microsoft seems committed to keeping Bethesda tentpole releases off Playstation.

How Much Does Xbox Game Pass Cost?

With such an impressive lineup of games coming in August 2024, now is a great time for gamers to join Game Pass if they haven’t already. Here’s a quick breakdown of the pricing options:

• Xbox Game Pass for Console– Access on Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S. $9.99 per month.
• Xbox Game Pass for PC– Access on Windows PC. $9.99 per month.
• Xbox Game Pass Ultimate– Access on Xbox, PC, and mobile devices. Also includes Xbox Live Gold online play. $14.99 per month.

Game Pass Ultimate is the best value since it bundles together all aspects of the service. However, console or PC-only subscribers still get the same games and benefits.

Occasional discounts on 1-month, 3-month and 6-month subscriptions may also be available. Xbox also offers discounts for first-time subscribers to the service.

Will These Games Ever Leave Game Pass?

One downside of Game Pass is that titles do eventually rotate out of the catalog. However, Xbox has committed to keeping first-party games available indefinitely.

Therefore, the major August 2024 additions like Halo, Forza Horizon, Starfield, and Minecraft Legends are likely to remain in Game Pass for the long haul. There’s no need to worry about those flagship releases getting removed.

Third-party games like Phantom Abyss, Slime Rancher 2, and others are more likely to have an expiration date. But even then, popular games often stick around for at least 6-12 months if not longer.

Xbox has gotten better about providing advance notice via emails and alerts within the app when a game is set to leave Game Pass.

Can I Play Game Pass Games Offline?

A great feature of Game Pass is that many games can be downloaded locally and played offline. This is essential for players without reliable internet access.

Of course, initial game downloads will require an internet connection. But once installed to your Xbox console, PC, or mobile device, no connectivity is needed to keep playing.

Some multiplayer-focused games like online shooters may require occasional check-ins. But the vast majority of Game Pass titles can be played offline indefinitely once downloaded.

The only other limitation is that the Game Pass subscription itself needs to renew periodically. If your membership lapses due to an expired payment, offline access to games will be disabled until resubscribing.

Game Pass Perks and bonuses

Beyond just game access, Game Pass membership comes with some nice perks. Game Pass subscribers can take advantage of exclusive discounts, free in-game content, and other rewards.

Some current examples of Game Pass perks include:

• Free Halo Infinite monthly multiplayer bonuses– Cosmetic items and 2X XP boosts.
• Free Fall Guys in-game currency– Regular monthly packs of crowns.
• World of Warships: Legends benefits– Free battleship rental and more.
• 30% discount on controller accessories– Eligible Xbox Wireless Controllers and more.

These bonuses provide nice added value to the Game Pass subscription. Make sure to check the Perks gallery in the Xbox app on a regular basis to grab the latest offers.

Will I Lose Access to these Games if I Drop Game Pass?

The availability of Game Pass games does depend on maintaining an active subscription. If you cancel, you’ll lose access to the catalog until resubscribing.

However, Xbox does offer discounts for buying certain games outright after trying them on Game Pass. And progress including achievements and save data will remain even if a game leaves Game Pass.

So there are ways to transition to full ownership of games initially accessed through the subscription. But you will need to pay the regular retail price outside of Game Pass.

For those planning to stick with Game Pass long term, maintaining access to these August 2024 games shouldn’t be an issue. But canceling Game Pass does mean losing its full catalog.

Game Pass cloud gaming

Game Pass Ultimate subscribers have another option for playing games – cloud gaming. This streams titles over the internet rather than needing local downloads.

Cloud gaming works on phones, tablets, browsers, and even some smart TVs. All that’s needed is a compatible controller to play Xbox games on the go.

Cloud gaming means immediate access to Xbox games without waiting for downloads. It does require a fast and stable internet connection for the best experience. But for some gamers, streaming may be the preferred way to play.

The technology is still improving, but cloud gaming represents another innovative way Microsoft is delivering games through Game Pass. Streaming makes Xbox content more accessible than ever.

Game Pass Family plan

For families, Microsoft now offers a Game Pass Family plan covering up to five players. Family members can access Game Pass Ultimate simultaneously and play together online.

The Family plan grants a nice discount for larger households looking to take advantage of Game Pass. Instead of multiple $14.99 individual subscriptions, the Family plan costs just $24.99 per month.

Up to five people can join a family group. Everyone gets their own individual Game Pass Ultimate login. Family managers have tools to add or remove members at any time too.

For parents looking for a game subscription suitable for the whole household, the Game Pass Family plan is a money-saving option compared to individual accounts. Family groups can share a stellar games library.

Is Xbox Game Pass Worth it?

With its multitude of membership options, perks, and a huge catalog of games, it’s easy to see the value Xbox Game Pass provides. The service has made premium gaming content more affordable and accessible than ever.

The ability to play brand new releases like the August 2024 Game Pass additions at no added cost is a huge selling point. Game Pass provides unlimited access instead of needing to pay $60 apiece for every hot new title.

Constant platform expansions via cloud gaming and Xbox app streaming have also grown Game Pass’s utility. And special features like Family plan pricing and Perks sweeten the deal even further.

For avid gamers who play a diverse array of titles, Game Pass is probably the best subscription service out there. The ever-growing games library houses something for everyone.

Between stalwart Xbox franchises, acclaimed third-party hits, and exciting indies, Game Pass enables players to try games they might otherwise never experience. For the price, unlocking such a breadth of content is an amazing value.

Game Pass vs PlayStation Plus

The closest competitor to Xbox Game Pass is PlayStation Plus Premium/Extra for PlayStation consoles. Since the June 2022 overhaul, PlayStation Plus now offers a catalog of downloadable games.

However, the Game Pass lineup of titles remains far larger and deeper than the PlayStation Plus collection. And Microsoft’s first-party games launch day-and-date into Game Pass, something Sony doesn’t match.

PlayStation Plus Premium/Extra does not get Sony’s big exclusives like God of War Ragnarok on release day for no added cost. Those blockbusters still require buying them individually.

That gives Game Pass the edge by directly including major Xbox releases. PlayStation fans need to subscribe and buy the biggest Sony games separately.

There are other perks and offerings that balance the scales. But in terms of premium game content, Game Pass provides superior day one value compared to PlayStation Plus.

Game Pass FAQs

Q: Can I play multiplayer games on Game Pass?

A: Yes, Game Pass grants full access to a game’s content, including multiplayer modes. An Xbox Live Gold subscription is needed for online multiplayer on Xbox consoles. But multiplayer is included on PC.

Q: How often are new games added to Game Pass?

A: Xbox adds new games every month, typically in the second half on around the 15th-20th. Major releases land day one, while a variety of indies and third party titles cycle in regularly.

Q: Does progress carry over if a game leaves Game Pass?

A: Yes, game saves and achievements will remain even if a title leaves the catalog. You’ll lose access to play it further without buying it separately.

Q: Can I share Game Pass with a friend?

A: No, Game Pass memberships are limited to the designated user accounts. However, the Game Pass Family plan expands sharing to additional family members.

Q: Will these games get DLC included in Game Pass?

A: Typically yes, major expansions and additions for games already in Game Pass will be added for subscribers too.

In Conclusion

Game Pass continues to improve each month by welcoming exciting new titles. The August 2024 additions highlighted here represent some of the biggest upcoming games on Xbox.

Halo Infinite, Forza Horizon 5, Starfield, and Minecraft Legends demonstrate Xbox’s commitment to bringing premium experiences day one to Game Pass users. And the service keeps filling out its catalog with great indies and third party games too.

For current subscribers, August 2024 will be an amazing month to dive into Game Pass. And for anyone still undecided about joining, this lineup of new arrivals makes a subscription very tempting.

Xbox Game Pass remains the best value around for gaining unlimited access to hundreds of games. The roster of titles is practically overflowing at this point. No matter your tastes as a gamer, Game Pass likely has something to satisfy.